EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships 2026, Switzerland (Fully Funded)
The EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships are prestigious merit-based awards offered by École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), one of Europe’s leading science and technology universities. These fellowships are designed to attract highly talented students from around the world who are beginning their Master’s studies and have demonstrated exceptional academic performance along with strong extracurricular engagement.
In addition to financial support, selected fellows benefit from guaranteed housing, allowing them to fully focus on their academic and personal development at EPFL.
About EPFL
EPFL (École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne) is a world-renowned public research university located in Lausanne, Switzerland. It is internationally recognized for excellence in:
- Engineering and Technology
- Computer Science and Data Science
- Natural Sciences
- Architecture and Built Environment
- Life Sciences
- Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation
EPFL consistently ranks among the top universities globally and offers a dynamic, multicultural academic environment.
Degree Level
- Master’s Degree (MSc)
The fellowship is awarded to students starting their Master’s studies at EPFL.
Available Subjects
EPFL offers 29 Master’s programs, distributed across:
- Five Faculties
- Two Colleges
Popular study areas include:
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
- Electrical & Mechanical Engineering
- Robotics
- Life Sciences & Biotechnology
- Environmental Sciences
- Architecture & Urban Studies
- Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics
Applicants must apply to an eligible EPFL Master’s program to be considered.
Benefits
The EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship provides:
- CHF 10,000 per semester
- Financial support for the entire Master’s duration (subject to renewal)
- Guaranteed student housing
- Recognition as an EPFL Excellence Fellow
- Flexibility to choose internships and early career opportunities based on academic interests
This funding allows students to concentrate on their studies while also engaging in research, entrepreneurship, innovation, and societal initiatives.
Excellence, Diversity, and Holistic Evaluation
EPFL values more than just academic grades. In addition to outstanding academic records, the selection committee considers:
- Research experience (publications, prizes, fellowships)
- Entrepreneurship (patents, startups, innovation projects)
- Societal and civic engagement
- Leadership, sports, arts, or cultural initiatives
- Participation in associations, events, or community projects
The fellowship promotes diversity, talent, and cross-disciplinary growth.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship, applicants must:
- Apply to an EPFL Master’s program
- Demonstrate excellent academic performance
- Show strong extracurricular involvement
- Be either:
- An EPFL Bachelor’s graduate, or
- A graduate from another recognized university
- Both Swiss and international students are eligible.
Fellowship Renewal Criteria
To renew the fellowship for the second year of the Master’s program, students must:
- Earn at least 50 ECTS credits
- Maintain an overall average of 5.0 / 6.0
Application Procedure
- Apply to an eligible EPFL Master’s program
- During the application process, check the box indicating interest in the Excellence Fellowship
- Upload the required application documents
- Internal EPFL candidates continuing in the same field apply directly through their academic section
There is no separate fellowship application outside the Master’s admission process.
Double Degrees & Research Opportunities
EPFL also offers:
- Double degrees and joint Master’s programs with top international partner universities
- Research internships in cutting-edge EPFL laboratories for highly qualified students
These opportunities further enhance academic and professional prospects for Master’s students.
Funding and Donor Support
The Master Excellence Fellowships are part of EPFL’s “Attract Talent” pillar within the Student Support Program. The program is generously supported by philanthropic donors, foundations, and industry partners who are committed to empowering future global leaders in science and technology.
Why Choose EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship?
- Study at a top-ranked global university
- Competitive financial support
- Guaranteed accommodation in Switzerland
- Strong focus on innovation, research, and entrepreneurship
- Multicultural campus with global career opportunities
